How Does Military PCS Car Shipping Work? | Military Vehicle Transport

Last updated Dec, 27 2025

How Does Military PCS Car Shipping Work? | Military Vehicle Transport

Military PCS (Permanent Change of Station) vehicle shipping is designed to assist active duty military members, veterans, and their families in transporting their privately owned vehicles (POVs) to a new duty station. According to the Department of Defense, eligible members can ship one vehicle at government expense under certain conditions. Approval must be obtained from the Military Traffic Management Command (MTMC) for any alternate port requests.

Does the Military Ship Your Car for Free?

The government may cover the cost of shipping your car if you’re an active duty member with PCS orders. However, this benefit applies to only one privately owned vehicle. You’ll need to arrange private transport through military auto shipping companies for additional vehicles. These specialized providers offer military car transport discounts on car shipping to ease the financial burden on service members.

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Simplified Pickup and Delivery Process

At A1 Auto Transport, we provide hassle-free military PCS vehicle shipping services. Our process is simple:

Pickup: Our drivers follow your instructions for vehicle collection.
Transport: Your vehicle is securely transported to its destination.
Delivery: The car arrives at your new location safely and on time.

We also offer discounts on vehicle shipping to ensure cost-effective solutions for active-duty, veterans, Reserve, National Guard, and military dependents.

Additional Benefits for Military Members

Military Discounts: Active-duty personnel and veterans can take advantage of exclusive discounts on auto transport, making the process more affordable.
Baggage Allowance: You can keep one suitcase or box (up to 100 lbs.) in the trunk of your vehicle during car transport, provided it doesn’t interfere with safety regulations.
Guaranteed Pickup Options: For urgent relocations, we provide expedited shipping services tailored to your PCS schedule.

Why Choose A1 Auto Transport for Military Car Shipping?

We understand the unique challenges army families face during PCS relocations. That’s why we’ve established ourselves as one of the most reliable military-friendly car shipping companies. Here’s what sets us apart:

High Standards: Our carrier compliance department ensures all carriers in our network meet stringent professional and safety requirements.
Comprehensive Insurance: Every shipment is covered by contingent cargo insurance for added peace of mind.
Customer Support: Our team is available 365 days a year to assist you with military vehicle transport inquiries and provide real-time updates.

Military PCS Vehicle Shipping Overseas

We handle the logistics seamlessly for OCONUS (Outside Continental United States) moves, such as shipping cars to Germany or other international destinations. Military vehicle transport companies like A1 Auto Transport specialize in navigating the complex requirements for transporting POV military vehicles abroad. Whether it’s shipping a vehicle overseas military or arranging for PCS my POV shipping times, we’re here to help.

Options for Military Auto Transport

Door-to-Door Transport: Conveniently ship your vehicle to and from any location, including military bases.
Enclosed Transport: Protect your car during transit with enclosed carriers, which are ideal for high-value vehicles.
Expedited Shipping: Ensure your car arrives precisely when you need it.

Why Army Members and Families Trust Us

Experienced Professionals: We've been in the industry for over a decade and have developed expertise in military car transport. We've earned top ratings from the BBB and My Moving Reviews.
Flexible Solutions: From military PCS vehicle shipping OCONUS to domestic pov transportation, we offer services tailored to your unique needs.
Partnerships with Dealerships: We’ve earned the trust of significant dealerships and bring the same level of care to military vehicle shipping.

Does the Military Ship Your Car for Free?

Yes, but only in some instances. Suppose you’re an active-duty service member with Permanent Change of Station (PCS) orders to an overseas location (OCONUS). In that case, the military will cover the cost of shipping one privately owned vehicle (POV). This applies to places like Germany, Japan, and South Korea. However, if you’re moving within the continental U.S. (CONUS), the military does not pay for car shipping, and you’ll need to arrange it yourself.

Many military car shipping companies offer discounts to service members for domestic moves. Depending on the distance and shipping method, the cost typically ranges from $400 to $1,400. If you're relocating and need help, check with a trusted military auto transport company to get the best rates.

Stress-Free Military Shipment of POV

A PCS relocation can be stressful, but worrying about the transport of POV military vehicles doesn’t have to be. We aim to provide reliable, safe, and efficient military car shipping services. Whether you need shipping overseas or are relocating within the U.S., we’re here to make the process as smooth as possible.

Call A1 Auto Transport Today

Call us at 1-888-230-9116 for more information about our military car transport services, including vehicle shipping and army discounts. Let us help you confidently navigate your next PCS move.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the military ship your car when you PCS within the U.S.?

For most CONUS PCS moves, the military does not cover vehicle shipping. Service members usually drive or hire a private carrier. Shipping becomes common when distances exceed 1,500 miles, reporting dates are tight, or multiple vehicles are involved. Choosing door-to-door service reduces base access issues and handoff delays. Many members coordinate transport alongside household goods to stay within PCS timelines using military auto transport.

How does military PCS vehicle shipping work?

Military PCS vehicle shipping allows service members to move a privately owned vehicle during a permanent change of station. For CONUS moves, the military typically does not ship your car, so members arrange transport through a licensed carrier. For OCONUS moves, the government may ship one POV if eligibility requirements are met. Timing, duty station, vehicle size, and orders all affect the process and scheduling windows.

Can the Army ship my car when I PCS overseas?

Yes, the Army can ship one POV for eligible overseas PCS assignments. The vehicle must be operable, free of personal items, and meet destination import standards. Drop-off occurs at a designated Vehicle Processing Center, not your home. Delivery timelines vary by port availability and route, often 4–8 weeks. Soldiers frequently pair government shipment with private options for additional vehicles using army car transport.

How many cars does the military ship for free during PCS?

For OCONUS PCS orders, the military typically authorizes shipping one POV per service member at government expense. Additional vehicles are not covered and must be shipped privately. Weight limits, vehicle condition, liens, and destination country rules apply. CONUS moves generally do not include free vehicle shipping. Rules are set by branch policy and coordinated through the transportation office before scheduling overseas delivery.

How much does military PCS vehicle shipping cost if I pay out of pocket?

Out-of-pocket military PCS vehicle shipping typically ranges from $700 to $1,600 for CONUS routes, depending on distance, vehicle size, carrier type, and season. Enclosed transport and expedited delivery increase costs. Base access restrictions and rural pickup locations can also affect pricing. Estimating early helps align shipping with report dates and leave schedules using a car shipping cost estimate.

What documents are required for military PCS car shipping?

Required documents usually include PCS orders, a valid military ID, vehicle title or lienholder authorization, registration, and proof of insurance. For overseas moves, passports and power of attorney may be required. Vehicles must be clean and meet agricultural inspection standards. Missing paperwork can delay acceptance at processing centers, especially during peak PCS season from May through August.